There is currently no vaccine
against malaria.
Prevention is key.
Malaria is a serious—sometimes even fatal—disease
that can be prevented. Transmitted by infected
mosquitoes, it is characterized by fever, chills and flu-like symptoms,
including muscle pain, headaches, cough, abdominal pain and malaise.
Transmission of malaria occurs during the night (between dusk and
dawn). It is present in most of sub-Saharan Africa, in large areas
of the Middle East, Southern Asia, South East Asia, Oceania, Haïti,
Central and South America, and in certain parts of Mexico, North Africa
and the Dominican Republic.
The risk of transmission increases in rural
areas and diminishes at altitudes above which malaria-infected mosquitoes
breed (> 2,000m
or 6,562ft). Travel to urban and tourist areas
of South East Asia, Central and South America is considered low-risk,
while travel to urban areas of other malaria-endemic zones (especially
sub-Saharan Africa, India and South Asia) brings with it a significant
risk of infection.
All travellers to malaria-endemic zones should take protective measures
to reduce the risk posed by night-biting mosquitoes and discuss the
need for preventive medicine with an expert in travel health.
Malaria may develop more than one year after returning from an infected
area. If you experience a fever upon your return from a malaria-infected
area, it should be considered to be malaria (especially within the
first 3 months) until proven otherwise. Seek medical attention immediately.
Malaria can only be ruled out by the microscopic examination of 3
blood films carried out 12 to 24 hours apart.
COUNTERFEIT DRUG WARNING
In some countries, counterfeit or sub-standard
drugs may be sold; therefore it is highly recommended to purchase
your anti-malarial medication before travelling to malaria-infected
areas.
How to Protect Yourself
Apply an insect repellent containing at least
25% DEET to exposed skin*
Sleep under a Permethrin-impregnated mosquito
bed net†
Treat clothing with Permethrin for added protection**
Use an effective anti-malarial medication
Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and
pants when outdoors (weather permitting)
Remain in well-screened or completely enclosed
air-conditioned areas between dusk and dawn
(if practical)
Call us now to get your anti-malarial medication
in Calgary: (403) 232-6244.
* Available at Medisys Travel Health Clinics
** Available at www.travmed.com
† Permethrin is available in Canada at Europe
Bound stores